The Ekiti State Government has taken a significant step to bolster security operations in the state by distributing 100 operational vehicles to various security agencies. This move is aimed at enhancing rapid response to emergencies and improving the mobility of security personnel. The vehicles were handed over to the benefiting agencies by the State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Monday.
The security agencies set to benefit from this initiative include the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the State Security Service, and local security networks in Ado-Ekiti, among others. According to Governor Oyebanji, this gesture underscores his administration's commitment to protecting lives and property across the state. He emphasized that the vehicles would also support the proposed Ekiti State Police Outfit.
This is not the first time the Ekiti State Government has invested in the security sector. Two years earlier, the administration distributed patrol vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers, bulletproof vests, helmets, and other security equipment to security agencies in the state. Governor Oyebanji described the latest intervention as a "bolder step" towards addressing the recurring demand by security agencies for operational vehicles.
During the handover ceremony, Governor Oyebanji assured the security agencies of his administration's continued support, including regular monthly financial assistance and efforts to strengthen the capacity of state-owned security institutions. He charged the security chiefs to reciprocate the government's investment by intensifying patrols, improving strategic visibility, and ensuring faster response to distress calls.
The governor also urged security and intelligence agencies to maximize the use of surveillance technology available in the state and to work collaboratively rather than operate in silos. Furthermore, he disclosed that the administration had begun discussions with CIG Motors about establishing a garage in Ekiti to ensure regular maintenance of the vehicles.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the governor on Security Matters, Ebenezer Ogundana, a retired brigadier general, said the Oyebanji administration is committed to the security of citizens' lives and property. He noted that following the government's deliberate efforts and investment, Ekiti was ranked the most peaceful state in the country. Ogundana added that the vehicles would enhance the operational efficiency of the security agencies.
As the state prepares for its forthcoming inauguration activities and the 2027 general elections, Governor Oyebanji appealed to security personnel to remain vigilant and work together to preserve the peace in Ekiti. With the provision of these vehicles, the government expects increased patrols, strategic visibility, faster response, and spontaneous agility on the part of security personnel.
Key points
- The Ekiti State Government has distributed 100 operational vehicles to security agencies to enhance rapid response and mobility.
- The vehicles will support the proposed Ekiti State Police Outfit and enhance the operational efficiency of security agencies.
- The government has also begun discussions with CIG Motors about establishing a garage in Ekiti for regular maintenance of the vehicles.
